We had her service today and it was very beautiful. I had come across some funeral guidelines from her that she had written out herself and tucked away, so we were able to include some of the things she wanted in the service. Like, John 3:16, The Lord's Prayer, and the song "Peace in the Valley." I had heard that song many times before, but when I heard it today I realized how appropriate it was for her. It was difficult today, but it is also a comfort to know that she is at peace. The reverend spoke of how she is free from her long struggle with MS now, and that was comforting to think of. But, she will be greatly missed. She was my best friend and a great role model for me.

My mom passed away this morning about 5 minutes after I arrived. It was almost like she was holding on for us all to be together. My brother, dad, and I were all at her side, and I told her that if she felt like she had to go, that it was okay, and that we all loved her very much. It looked like she smiled, and then she was gone. It is very difficult, but her long suffering is finally over, and I know that she is in a much better place. Thank you all for your prayers. It has been more of a comfort than I can express to know that you were all here for me and were praying for my family. She was at home, and she seemed at peace, and that was I wanted for her.

Hello, Pam.

Such horrible news. I'm quite saddened by it.

Though I can't say that I know exactly how you feel as we're not the same, I can say that I know the pain in losing a Mother. My Mom was my best friend, and after five years (six in March), I've never had a day where I didn't think of her and miss her. I know I never will. You'll be the same with your Mom.

I think it's wonderful that your Mom held on for you all to be with her. I think she wanted to let you all know that she was ready to be at peace and for you not to worry about her. She smiled at you? Awww, how precious.

I remember bending down and whispering into my Mom's ear...telling her that though I'll miss her like crazy, I wanted her to go on and leave us if she was ready. She passed away two days later.

I know your Mom appreciated all that you did to help her. Be proud of yourself. She's proud of you.

If you ever need to vent away from the forum, you can send me a PM or an email.

I'm glad the service was lovely and that you were 'happy' with it, Pam. It sounds like you really paid tribute to the wonderful woman your mother was. You have been on my mind and I continue to pray for you. My mom is my best friend too and I can't even imagine the loss you must be feeling.

LM, I am sorry you lost your mom just a few short years ago too. One of my good friends lost her mom a few years back---time helps to heal, but the loss is still there.

I am very sorry for your loss. I remember when my uncle was going through this hard time with his disease and it was hard seeing him suffer in his several trips to the hospital and at home. You feel such a sense of desperation, you want them to continue being part of your life here but at the same time you get a sad sense of "it's okay if they go because they won't suffer anymore".

From what I know of you Pam, you were a wonderful daughter to your mother and she fell asleep in death knowing that. I know that you, your dad and the rest of your family are grieving right now and I also know that you believe in Jesus Christ so remember his promise more than ever now. You can read about the different resurrections Jesus performed while he was here on earth, imagine yourself there as you read the passages. It's like a taste of what Jesus will do in the future in a global scale to all the people that are in his memory. You WILL see your mother once again Pam.

John 11:25 "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live"